Simultaneous observation of the evolution of debris density and friction coefficient in dry sliding steel contacts

Wear debris can have a significant effect on the coefficient of friction between two components in dry sliding conditions. This paper describes simultaneous measurements of wear particle debris density and friction coefficients made in dry sliding pin-on-disc tests with steel specimens having a range of hardness values. This data is discussed along with a summary of a theoretical analysis conducted by other authors in which friction coefficients were predicted for dry sliding with and without wear debris. (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.